What accessibility features are required for basement suites in Ottawa?

Basement suites in Ottawa must meet specific accessibility requirements under the Ontario Building Code, including barrier-free path requirements and accessible design features for new secondary dwelling units.

When creating a basement suite in Ottawa, accessibility compliance depends on when your home was built and the scope of your renovation. New secondary dwelling units (created after 2015) must include a barrier-free path from the public sidewalk to the suite entrance, accessible door hardware, and sufficient maneuvering space at doorways. The entrance door must have a minimum 32-inch clear width when open, and thresholds cannot exceed 13mm (½ inch) in height.

Interior accessibility features required include accessible light switches and electrical outlets positioned between 400mm and 1200mm from the floor, accessible door hardware (lever handles rather than knobs), and adequate maneuvering space in hallways (minimum 920mm wide). If you're adding a bathroom to the suite, it must include blocking in walls around the toilet and bathtub/shower areas to support future grab bar installation, even if grab bars aren't initially installed.

Ottawa-specific considerations include ensuring your basement suite entrance complies with the city's secondary dwelling unit bylaws while meeting accessibility standards. The separate entrance required for basement suites must be accessible, which often means addressing grade changes with proper ramps or grading. Ramps cannot exceed a 1:20 slope without handrails, and steeper ramps require specific design standards.

Existing homes converting basements to suites may have some flexibility under the "existing building" provisions of the Ontario Building Code, but major renovations trigger current accessibility requirements. The City of Ottawa's Building Code Services (613-580-2424) can clarify which requirements apply to your specific situation during the permit application process.

Professional guidance is essential because accessibility requirements intersect with fire safety, structural, and zoning compliance. An experienced contractor familiar with Ottawa's secondary suite requirements can ensure your project meets all accessibility standards while maximizing your basement's potential. Retrofitting accessibility features after construction is significantly more expensive than incorporating them during the initial renovation.

For a comprehensive assessment of accessibility requirements for your specific basement suite project, contact Ottawa Basements for a free consultation. We'll ensure your secondary dwelling unit meets all current accessibility and building code requirements while creating a comfortable, compliant living space.